Pessoa Saddles

Pessoa saddles are designed to support balance and freedom of movement for both horse and rider. The range includes jumping, eventing, general purpose and pony saddles, with different seats, flaps and panels to suit a variety of riding positions and horse shapes.

Can a Pessoa saddle be adjusted as my horse changes shape?
Pessoa’s X-Change system uses interchangeable gullet plates to adjust the width at the front of the saddle. This allows the width to be reassessed as your horse develops muscle or changes condition. The correct plate and fitting procedure depend on the saddle model, so check the details of your saddle before making a change.

Will changing the gullet make a Pessoa fit any horse?
No. The width is only one part of saddle fit. The tree and panels must also follow the shape of your horse’s back, distribute the rider’s weight appropriately, remain balanced and provide clearance for the withers and spine.

What are AMS panels?
Pessoa’s Advanced Movement System, or AMS, combines flocked panels with a pressure-stabilising layer. AMS panels can be assessed and reflocked by a saddle fitter, giving another way to refine the fit as your horse changes.

Are there Pessoa options for a short back or prominent withers?
Pessoa offers different panel shapes on selected models, including options intended to suit different back and wither profiles. The panel length must be checked against the horse’s available saddle area, while clearance and balance need to be assessed with the rider aboard. The choice of panel is as important as the gullet width.

How do I choose the right Pessoa saddle for my position?
Start with your riding discipline and how much support you prefer. Seat shape, flap length and angle, knee blocks and thigh blocks can all affect where your leg sits and how easily you move between seated and forward positions. Selected Pessoa saddles offer flap and panel choices, allowing the fitter to consider the rider and horse together.

Can a Pessoa saddle suit a wide horse?
Pessoa offers a broad range of X-Change widths on compatible models. A wider gullet may help achieve the correct front width, but a fitter must also confirm that the tree shape, panels and saddle length suit the individual horse.

At Saddleworld Devonport, we can help you explore the Pessoa range and identify models worth assessing for your horse and your riding. We recommend a professional fitting to confirm the final choice.